Colombian Police Intensify Search for Luis Diaz’s Kidnapped Father

Colombian law enforcement authorities are intensifying their search for the kidnapped father of Liverpool forward, Luis Diaz. While Diaz’s mother has been successfully rescued, the focus is now on locating his father. The player has returned home to be with his family during this difficult time.

Police have been conducting aerial patrols in the Perija mountain range, which straddles the border between Colombia and Venezuela, and is covered by dense forest. The challenging terrain poses a significant hurdle for search and rescue operations.

Colombian police director general William Salamanca expressed his support for the operation on social media, recognizing the bravery and dedication of the commandos involved in the mission to rescue Luis Diaz’s father.

A reward of approximately £39,000 has been offered by the authorities for any information that leads to the safe rescue of Luis Manuel Diaz.

However, Salamanca has urged caution regarding reports suggesting that Luis Manuel might have already been taken into Venezuela, highlighting the formidable challenge of crossing the treacherous Perija mountains.

Both FIFA and the Colombia Football Federation have extended their support to 26-year-old Diaz, and Liverpool has allowed him to return home during this trying period.

Following Liverpool’s 3-0 victory over Nottingham Forest on Sunday, manager Jurgen Klopp described the preparations for the game as the most challenging he has ever experienced in his life. Klopp emphasized the team’s commitment to supporting Luis Diaz during this difficult time and stated that their only recourse is to fight for him.

Liverpool, in an official statement, expressed its awareness of the ongoing situation involving Luis Diaz’s family in Colombia and expressed hope for a swift and safe resolution. The welfare of the player remains the club’s top priority.

Liverpool signed Luis Diaz from Porto in January 2022 in a deal worth £37.5 million, with the potential for an additional £12.5 million in add-ons.